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The House of Representatives approved a bill Thursday aimed at decentralizing the management of Cyprus’ public hospitals, in a move supporters say will address widespread healthcare inefficiencies and region-specific challenges.
The legislation, introduced by DIKO MP Chrysanthos Savvides, amends the legal framework of the State Health Services Organization (OKYPY) to allow the appointment of separate executive directors for each district. The bill passed with 23 votes in favor, 9 against, and 3 abstentions.
Savvides argued the current centralized model has failed, noting a drastic increase in the healthcare budget, from €500 million before the General Healthcare System (GeSY) to over €3.2 billion, without a matching improvement in services. He highlighted dire conditions in Paphos and Polis Chrysochous hospitals, including staff shortages, inadequate equipment, and a recent case of a patient dying in a taxi due to a lack of ambulance services.
While the bill does not mandate separate directors in each district, it sets a legal foundation for tailored governance. Critics, including DISY, cited constitutional concerns and objected to clauses involving operational director roles. DISY MP Savia Orphanidou acknowledged flaws in the healthcare system but emphasized the need for constitutional compliance and greater accountability from the Health Ministry and OKYPY leadership.
AKEL MPs supported the bill, with Marina Nicolaou calling for urgent infrastructure upgrades and staff recruitment. AKEL’s Stefanos Stefanou criticized the government’s inaction and the absence of a national health needs map, warning of creeping privatization of public healthcare.
Other MPs echoed concerns over poor services, especially in rural areas, and accused OKYPY and the Health Insurance Organization (OAY) of systemic failures. DIKO’s Zacharias Koulias and Pavlos Mylonas called for structural reforms, while AKEL’s Valentinos Fakontis emphasized that Paphos hospital remains subordinated to Limassol despite growing demand.
In contrast, DISY MP Marios Mavridis defended GeSY and promoted the role of the private sector, arguing unions are obstructing hospital autonomy. He acknowledged imperfections but said health indicators have improved since GeSY’s implementation.
Independent MP Alexandra Attalides and DIKO’s Panikos Leonidou stressed the need for professional oversight, transparency, and better legal structures. Attalides also raised alarms over high mortality rates in public hospitals.
While views varied, there was broad agreement that Cyprus’ public health system faces deep-rooted challenges that require urgent attention.
